On June 30, 1994, a Grumman G-164A (registration N526Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Searcy, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain aircraft control following a complete loss of engine power due to fuel system contamination with water. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power during climb-out and attempted to return to the airport. The aircraft impacted a levee, nosed over, and came to rest inverted after fuel system contamination was discovered.
What happened
The non-endorsed student pilot was operating an aircraft when intermittent power interruptions occurred during the initial climb out from the departure airport. As the pilot attempted to return to the airfield following these disruptions, a complete loss of engine power ensued. The airplane subsequently impacted a levee during the landing roll and nosed over, coming to rest in an inverted position.
Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel system was contaminated with water. This contamination is identified as the primary factor leading to the engine failure and subsequent accident.
Safety message
Pilots must ensure that fuel systems are free from contaminants such as water before flight operations to prevent in-flight power loss.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain aircraft control following a complete loss of engine power due to fuel system contamination with water.